Photo Credit: San Francisco 49ers
Hello, Science Cheerleader fans! As part of NFL Playoff season, we are interviewing some of the current professional cheerleaders who are cheering their teams in the playoffs while also pursuing science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers. Read on to learn more about Megan, a medical sales consultant in the healthcare industry and a member of the San Francisco 49ers Gold Rush Cheerleaders squad.
How did you get interested in science/engineering?
I’ve always known I wanted to be in a field where I could help others, be it physically or mentally. The health field is where my passion lies ever since playing sports at a young age. My mom is a nurse and I’ve always enjoyed learning about the human body and its capabilities. I originally was pre-nursing at Sacramento State University and ultimately received my BS in gerontology.
Who had the most influence on your career choice?
My mom! Not only is she a nurse, but she has had a career in medical sales and medical marketing since I was a young girl. She is a strong, independent woman with great leadership skills and it has inspired me to make my own path in the same field.
Photo Credit: San Francisco 49ers
How would you describe what you do?
I am a medical sales associate consultant for Prescribers Choice. Essentially, my company creates customized prescription medication free of insurance so that it is affordable to the patient and doctors can prescribe the medication patients need without worry!
How do you integrate your career with being a professional cheerleader?
It is a direct correlation, in my opinion. You learn SO much when you’re in college, and being determined in school will help you become determined in your career and ultimately in conquering your dreams! In my opinion, nothing worth having comes easily. If you truly want something, you have to work for it and you have to believe in yourself! School, my career, and becoming a professional cheerleader were not easy accomplishments. They took time, hard work, and perseverance. But they were all WORTH IT!
What’s your favorite part about your studies/job?
My favorite part is seeing the relief on a doctor’s face when I tell them I have a solution for both them AND their patients! I love being able to make a difference in the health field.
What’s been the best experience as an NFL cheerleader?
It’s been my dream ever since I was a young girl to be an NFL Cheerleader. Conquering my dream was better than anything I’ve ever felt before. It didn’t come easy, though! It took me three years to make the team and I appreciate it so much! That experience alone was irreplaceable. Being on the team I have met so many strong, intelligent, caring, and giving people I get to call my teammates! I’ve had the opportunity to give back to the community and represent an incredible organization that brings me a happiness I can’t even describe! I love the many different aspects of being an NFL cheerleader and being able to inspire young women and men to follow their dreams and never stop dancing your heart out!
What’s one thing people would find surprising about you?
I’ve also been a boxing instructor!